Inspired by a Bible verse that that evokes the message of sacrifice for healing and peace, about 1,500 Negrenses gathered at the launching of an inter-faith prayer for unity at the Paglaum Sports Complex in Bacolod City yesterday.

Although the gathering may be an effective way of asking help from God, Bishop Emeritus Roman Tiples of the Iglesia Filipino Independiente said the roots of the problem --- inequality and oppression --- must be solved first. "We still need to overcome inequality and oppression," Tiples, who was among the religious leaders who attended the inter-faith prayer rally, said.

La Salle Bro. Rolando Dizon said more prayer rallies should be held, since "we cannot solve our problems alone, we need God's help".

"Let us pray together. We need more of these gatherings," Dizon, former chairman of the Commission on Higher Education, said.

Dizon had also been named to the Constitutional Commission formed by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to propose changes in the 1987 Constitution but has resigned from the post.

The gathering, that featured performances by the West Negros College choir, prayers and bible readings, was attended mostly by students.

The goal here is to deliver a message that the real power of change must come from God, Fr. Aniceto Buenafe, Social Action Center director said.

"We are guided by 2nd Chronicle Chapter 7:14. If the people humble themselves, confess their sins and turn away from evil, God will heal their land," he further said.

Although he was not at the gathering, Bacolod Bishop Vicente Navarra said he was praying for "deliverance for the nation from evil intents and designs of people who want to destroy our God-given freedom and well-being".

Navarra is in Manila to attend the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines assembly.

The gathering was highlighted by a candle-lighting activity, symbolizing the light of hope amid the political crisis.

Among its organizers was Violeta Lopez-Gonzaga.*CPT

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